The US Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun, has publicly questioned how to “change” Indonesian educational books, sparking concerns about foreign interference in a sovereign nation’s curriculum. Kaploun, a Miami businessman and Trump campaign donor, was confirmed by a Senate vote of 53–43 and has since indicated his intention to leverage his position to influence historical narratives abroad.
Focus on Indonesia
Speaking at the Jerusalem Post Washington Conference, Kaploun specifically identified Indonesia – a nation of 350 million Muslims – as a priority. He asked, “How are we going to change their educational books?” and stated the need to reshape curricula to determine “who should be responsible” for Gaza. This declaration, according to reports, signals an intent to alter Indonesian understandings of colonialism, violence, and Palestinian suffering.
The effort to influence Indonesian education is framed by its proponents as combating antisemitism, but critics argue it is primarily about controlling the narrative. Indonesia’s support for Palestine is presented as a natural extension of its own anti-colonial history.
Curriculum Under Scrutiny
For years, Israel has reportedly monitored Indonesian curricula through the British-Israeli think tank IMPACT-se, in collaboration with the Ruderman Family Foundation. A 2023 report by IMPACT-se analyzed 169 textbooks, covering approximately 85 percent of Indonesian students. However, the report’s findings reportedly refute claims of antisemitic indoctrination within the Indonesian education system.
According to the report, references to Jews in Indonesian Islamic education textbooks are “overwhelmingly neutral or positive.” Terrorism is explicitly condemned, and pluralism is celebrated. While acknowledging the indigenous presence of Jews, textbooks reportedly describe Israel as a colonial occupier and Palestinian dispossession as an ongoing injustice.
IMPACT-se’s CEO, Marcus Sheff, reportedly praised Indonesia’s tolerance while simultaneously arguing it should be used to “correct” narratives about Israel. Jay Ruderman, a board member of IMPACT-se, reportedly dismissed the curriculum for lacking “factual” Israeli history and sufficient Holocaust education.
Kaploun has indicated that compliance with desired curriculum changes will be enforced through pressure on governments and UN-funded education programs, utilizing “accountability” measures for non-compliance. This approach is described as coercion rather than diplomacy.
The timing of this effort is particularly sensitive, as Israel continues military actions in Gaza, including the destruction of educational institutions. Critics point to a perceived disparity in urgency: while Palestinian education is being destroyed, the focus is on disciplining Indonesia for refusing to alter its historical narratives.
What Could Happen Next
Indonesia could respond by firmly rejecting foreign interference in its curriculum and reaffirming its constitutional commitment to anti-colonialism. It is possible Jakarta will seek to expand universal anti-racism education while maintaining its stance on Palestinian rights. Alternatively, Indonesia may attempt diplomatic negotiations to mitigate the pressure, though this could involve concessions on curriculum content. A continued assertive stance could lead to increased tensions with the US, potentially impacting other areas of bilateral relations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun’s role?
Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun is the US Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism. He was confirmed by a Senate vote of 53–43 and has stated his intention to influence historical narratives in foreign countries.
What specifically does IMPACT-se analyze?
IMPACT-se analyzed 169 Indonesian textbooks used in the General Standard Pathway, covering approximately 85 percent of students nationwide, to assess their content related to Israel and the Palestinian conflict.
What is Indonesia’s stated position on colonialism?
Indonesia’s 1945 Constitution commits the nation to opposing colonialism “in all its forms,” a principle stemming from its own experiences with Dutch and Japanese occupation.
How will differing interpretations of history impact international relations?
